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Leprosy

InfectiousMycobacterium lepraeAncient (600 BC India)Prolonged close contact
TypeInfectious
CauseMycobacterium leprae
First KnownAncient (600 BC India)
TransmissionProlonged close contact

About Leprosy

One of the oldest recorded diseases, mentioned in ancient Indian, Chinese, and Egyptian texts. Caused horrific stigma, sufferers banished to colonies. Nine-banded armadillos and red squirrels in Britain are known animal hosts. Multidrug therapy, recommended by the WHO since 1981, has cured millions. Now called Hansens disease to reduce stigma.

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